What Is a Local Social Security Office?

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A local Social Security office is a branch of the Social Security Administration, a federal agency responsible for a variety of social welfare programs. Local offices allow people to apply for a Social Security number, check a lifetime earnings record and apply for benefits.

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SSA benefits include medical insurance, food stamp assistance, Supplemental Security Income, hospital insurance protection and financial assistance with Medicare prescription drugs. A local Social Security office can also assist with information regarding individual and family rights and obligations as mandated by U.S. law. As of January 2015, there are nearly 1,300 offices throughout the country, as well as 10 larger regional offices that control the field offices.